Music transforms lives and communities. The People’s Orchestra delivers accessible, innovative programs across the UK to break down barriers, foster lasting connections, and create genuine opportunities for all—regardless of background or circumstance. Grounded in fairness, inclusion, and lifelong growth, our mission is to empower people through music-led experiences that nurture wellbeing, connection, and personal potential.

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We design and deliver impactful music and community programs supporting mental, physical, and financial wellbeing for people of all ages. Our flagship Music Making program reaches over 1,200 individuals annually through weekly workshops and creative projects. Our impact programs and advice lines reach over 150 individuals annually—50% aged 60+ and 70% from lower-income backgrounds— We collaborate with partners, local organizations, and volunteers to maximize reach and drive systemic change so that no one is left behind. Our flexible, responsive approach ensures support adapts to the evolving needs of UK communities.

Bespoke work placements and back-to-work coaching help individuals overcome barriers to meaningful employment. More than 2,500 people have moved into paid work through our programs and business partnerships. Of those on government kick-start placements, 71% secured jobs. Real-world experiences, coaching, and mentoring foster confidence, capability, and hope. Hundreds participate yearly, tackling isolation and inspiring real growth:

In 2024/25, Positive Futures changed 110 lives:
• 34 secured paid work—including 18 very long-term unemployed—while 98 built confidence and employability through coaching and workshops.
• 65 vulnerable people got one-to-one support, from carers and refugees to ex-offenders and those facing homelessness. Among them, 97 people with disabilities and 79 from diverse backgrounds took positive steps with us.
Mental health support was available 24/7, with suicide prevention and wraparound care to keep everyone safe and seen.

Our participants achieve real progress:

• 100% report enhanced wellbeing and confidence.
• 100% gain essential job market skills and tools.
• 88% build new, supportive networks for ongoing connection.
• 70% start exploring creative or portfolio careers—opening new possibilities.
• 40% move into paid employment after joining our programs.

“For the first time, I felt seen—not just helped, but believed in.” 

Navigating financial hardship can be overwhelming. Through our Advice Line, we guide 250 people each year to their rights and entitlements, ensuring no one gets left behind. We provide one-on-one advice to secure life-changing support—£6,380 per household on average—with a 95% success rate from initial referral. In the year 2024/25 our help meant £368,000 reached those most in need helping them to access essentials like food, gas, and electricity.

Our work radiates outward—fostering empowerment, belonging, and positive connections not just for participants, but for communities as a whole. Our Social Return on Investment is 1:27, and we are honoured by the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Every partnership, donation, and act of support amplifies the ripple effect: strengthening communities, reducing isolation, and building a culture of hope.

Volunteers are the backbone of our mission, driving positive change across roles—from leading workshops to crucial support behind the scenes. Every volunteer receives comprehensive training, ongoing recognition, and the encouragement needed to thrive. Their skills, dedication, and time underpin the success of all our programs.

Every contribution creates tangible impact:

• £30: Brings friendship and purpose to a lonely older adult.
• £70: Keeps a struggling family warm and fed for a year.
• £100: Provides choir places for those battling isolation.
• £250: Boosts a young person’s confidence and creativity.
• £450: Opens the door to secure, paid employment for vulnerable adults

Show your support and purchase a lottery ticket here and help us make a difference

With partners, funders, and public support, we expand our reach every year—building a society where every person can thrive, empowered by music and united by social impact. Join us, and help amplify the life-changing power of music, connection, and hope across the UK